New rules for roofers

A growing number of roofing contractors are trying to convince homeowners to replace roofs that don’t necessarily need replacement. Critics say their aggressive marketing tactics are driving up insurance costs, and a new law is designed to stop them.

Sponsored by Rep. Phil Sterner (DFL-Rosemount) and Sen. Kathy Saltzman (DFL-Woodbury), the law prohibits a residential roofer from advertising to consumers that they will pay part or all of a homeowner’s insurance deductible in a roofing claim. Roofers who violate the provision can be sued for damages by either the homeowner or their insurer.

The law also states that homeowners have the right to cancel a contract with a roofer within 72 hours of being notified that their insurance claim has been denied. Roofing contractors must provide consumers with written notification of their right to cancel a contract, and must refund any payments to the homeowner within 10 days of cancellation. Contractors are entitled to any payments for performing emergency services, however.

The law takes effect Aug. 1, 2010.

HF2060/ SF1886*/CH324